As I write this letter to you the Church on this day (Wednesday) celebrates the Solemnity of the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a day of joy and hope. It marks the beginning of God’s promise to fulfill His promise to rescue humanity from the ravages of sin.

The Angel Gabriel announces, “Hail full of grace! The Lord is with you.”  Because Mary says yes to the rest of his message we are now beneficiaries of that grace and can know that the Lord is indeed with us!

In these trying times what a blessing that is for us. We can have hope because God is still blessing us with His grace. We can look for joy because He promises to remain with us.

Just as the Angel tells Mary not to be afraid, we can let those same words wash over us. God loves us and God’s perfect love casts out all fear so the First Letter of John tells us. Therefore let us not be afraid nor worry throughout this time of quarantine, rather let us find joy in knowing we have God’s grace and love to see us through whatever may happen.

Remember too, this Sunday’s Gospel is the recounting of the raising of Lazarus. Another clear sign of hope in trying times. Our God will call us out of any darkness into His light and love.

Be Safe and Well,

Fr Tom